“WWF: Forests are home to many of the world´s most endangered wildlife. They also protect the Planet by absorbing carbon dioxide (CO2), a major source of pollution that causes climate change.”
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Note from author: Forests are crucial to our planet, not only are they home to thousands of species, but do also act as the “lungs” of Earth by absorbing environmentally damaging gases and pollution. Forests cover 31 % (4 billion ha) of our world´s land surface, down from 5.9 billion hectares pre-industrially. (Earth Policy Institute. 2012). Sustainably managed forests provide essential goods and services and play an important role in sustainable development. (FAO. 2015).
Deforestation is a serious problem. If necessary measures are not taken, there is a risk of our rain forests vanishing within a century. (The Guardian. January 23rd 2017. We are destroying rain forests so quickly they may be gone in 100 years). Despite of these shattering facts, there can be light at the end of the tunnel if and when we take measures to change the course of this trend. Some countries have realized the importance of forests and trees for the well-being of our environment, including fauna, flora and ourselves as a human race. In Pakistan, over one billion trees have been planted within two years as a national project to restore lost forests. (World Atlas. August 14th 2017. In Only Two Years, Pakistan Has Planted One Billion Trees). In addition, Norway has become the first country in the world to ban deforestation. (EcoWatch. June 8th 2016).
To gain a deeper insight into forestry and deforestation worldwide, study this report published by FAO in 2015: Global Forest Resources Assessment 2015.
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Anne-Maria Yritys 